Brief Description: Including a classified employee on the Washington professional educator standards board.

Sponsors: Representatives Quall, Talcott, McDermott, Cox, Benson, Ahern, Hunter, Lovick, Dunshee, Anderson, Delvin, McCoy, Cody, Miloscia, Eickmeyer, Mielke, Schindler, Schoesler, Linville, Pearson, Kessler, Rockefeller, Cairnes, Mastin, Grant, Kagi and Upthegrove.

Hearing Date: 1/29/03

Staff: Susan Morrissey (786-7111).

Background:

The Professional Educator Standards Board was created by the 2000 legislature to:

(1) Advise and provide recommendations to the State Board of Education, Superintendent of Public Instruction, Governor and Legislature on the full range of issues affecting education professionals, including: recruitment, hiring, preparation, certification, mentoring, professional growth, retention, governance, assessment, and evaluation; (2) Oversee new basic skills and subject matter assessments to be required of all new teachers prior to state certification; and

Bring greater public focus and attention to education professions.

The 2001 legislature added a responsibility to implement three alternative routes to certify educators.

The board is comprised of nineteen members appointed by the governor to four-year staggered terms plus the Superintendent of Public Instruction. The chair of the board is appointed by the governor from amongst the teachers and principals on the board. Of the nineteen appointed members, eight are teachers, seven from public schools and one representing private schools. Four members are school administrators, two of whom are public school principals, one principal from a private school and one superintendent. Two members are educational staff associates, and three represent college and university educator preparation programs. One member is a parent and one represents the public. Most of the members of the board who represent K-12 and higher education are also required to meet additional qualifications.

Summary of Bill:

The Professional Educator Standards Board is expanded by one member. The governor will appoint to the board a classified employee who assists in public school instruction. The employee must have at least three years of public school experience in the para-educator role and must be currently serving in that capacity.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not Requested.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.